Purple is the new redTopic: EducationSome psychologists and teachers say purple ink is less intimidating than red on a corrected school paper. "When it comes to correcting papers and grading tests, purple is emerging as the new red."

"Red's legacy as the color used in correcting papers and marking mistakes goes back to the 1700s, the era of the quill pen. In those days, red ink was used by clerks and accountants to correct ledgers. From there, it found its way into teachers' hands." Read the article "Harshness of red marks has students seeing purple" By Naomi Aoki, Boston Globe, 23.Aug.2004

Most popular Google searches 2004Topic: LogosSearch patterns, trends, and surprises"Based on billions of searches conducted by Google users around the world, the 2004 Year-End Zeitgeist offers a unique perspective on the year's major events and trends." (via marchdesign)

The Esquire logo was drawn by lettering artist and type designer Jim Parkinson in collaboration with Roger Black and Ann Pomeroy. You can see Parkinson's work at his website, including the Esquire logo.

Absolut Vodka AdvertisingTopic: AdvertisingV&S, the makers of Renat Brännvin also makes Absolut. They say Absolut Vodka's advertising campaign is the world's longest ever uninterrupted one. To this date, it comprises 1,450 original ads, with more added each month. One of my favorites is Absolut Rome with a red Vespa scooter. Check the ad archives:

Merry Christmas!Topic: DesignRenat Brännvin (Swedish Vodka) schnapps is on the Christmas dining table year after year. The bottle was redesigned in 2002. New bottle (to the right) by Jan Johansson, Orrefors glass factory. The new label was designed by Roland Ingemarsson, Studio Ring AB.»Read more in the V&S press releases: 20.Feb.2002, 29.Oct.2002 (in Swedish).

Beatles Christmas Records - mp3Topic: MusicThe Beatles Christmas Records "If you were fortunate enough to have been a member of the official Beatles fan club between 1963 and 1969, then you likely have heard one or more of these records. The Beatles recorded them and sent them out to their adoring fans every year, finally collecting them all on one album for the 1970 edition."

Great Penmanship on eBayTopic: CalligraphyC P Zaner business card and other great samples of ornamental penmanship from the Zanerian College of Penmanship are sold on eBay by Del Tysdal in Glyndon, Minnesota. Search eBay for Ornamental Penmanship (Auctions ends 28-30 Dec.2004)

IAMPETH - The International Association of Master Penmen, Engrossers and Teachers of HandwritingTopic: CalligraphyIAMPETH is an international association of over 400 members strong dedicated to practicing and preserving the beautiful art of fine penmanship. Founded in 1949, it is the oldest and largest penmanship organization in the United States. Download the Penman's Journal, Fall 2003 (pdf 6.8MB).Read more on the Official Homepage of IAMPETH

William Shakespeare Action Figure with removable Quill Pen!Topic: QuillsTo buy or not to buy the Shakespeare action figure... that is the question!Today I almost bought the hard plastic William Shakespeare Action Figure as a christmas gift. I really liked the removable book and quill pen! Then I realized my son doesn't play with action figures anymore, and so I didn't buy it (from the Combo Store in Stockholm).

The Bonefolder - a journal for the bookbinder and book artistTopic: DesignThe Bonefolder is a new free e-magazine about book arts, hand bookbinding, teaching, business practice, the history of the book, general tips & tricks, exhibitions, how-to technical articles, and reviews. Download The Bonefolder - Vol.1, No.1, Fall 2004 (pdf 1.6MB) or read more on the Book Arts Web

Ornamental Penmanship on eBay auctionsTopic: CalligraphyFancy signature cards and other great samples of original pen and ink ornamental penmanship from the Zanerian College of Penmanship are sold on eBay by Del Tysdal in Glyndon, Minnesota. Search eBay for Ornamental Penmanship (Auctions ends 20.Dec.2004)

Breast Implants ...cheaper than a car and better than a fountain penTopic: Pens, PencilsBreast Implants are becoming quite the graduation gift. "It's cheaper than a car and better than a fountain pen." says Miami doctor Lenny Roudner, who is so popular among women seeking implants that his nickname is "Dr. Boobner". Read more in the article 'More teens see implants as a right' by Jodi Mailander Farrell on azcentral.com (Image text: 'Pamela Anderson is just one of the celebrities famous for her implants.')